Stem Cells

Question 1

What are stem cells?

Answer 1

Cells that have the ability to produce different types of body cells.

Question 2

How are stem cells different to other cells?

Answer 2

Because they are not specialised for any particular role and are capable of repeated division by mitosis

Question 3

How can stem cells divide by mitosis?

Answer 3

Through simple mitosis, a stem cell can make exact copies of itself indefinitely.

Once specialised, stem cells have limited capacity to reproduce themselves.

Question 4

What is stem cell proliferation?

Answer 4

When specialised cells are unable to divide.

Therefore, they must be new stem cells or cells that differentiate to form specialised cells.

Question 5

How can stem cells be classified?

Answer 5

Stem cells can be classified based on:
1. Where they originate (embryonic, adult stem cells or cord blood)

2. The type of cells that they can form.

Question 6

What is differentiation?

Answer 6

The process by which cells become specialised so they can perform particular functions – e.g. stomach cells that secrete enzymes

Question 7

What is potency?

Answer 7

Refers to the potential capacity of a stem cell to differentiate into different specialised cell types

Question 8

What is a totipotent stem cell?

Answer 8

Have the potential to create any type of cell necessary for embryonic development, including the embryo and all membranes associated with embryonic development that will surround/support/nourish it.

Question 9

What is an example of a totipotent?

Answer 9

The early embryo before the formation of the inner cell mass.

Question 10

What is a pluripotent stem cell?

Answer 10

Have the potential of developing into any of the cell types found in the adult.

Question 11

What is an example of a pluripotent?

Answer 11

The inner cell mass.

Question 12

What is a multipotent stem cell?

Answer 12

Have the potential of developing into a few cell types with a specific function – usually those found in the organ they’re derived.

Question 13

What is an example of a multipotent?

Answer 13

Blood stem cells which give rise to red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets.